What problems weakened the Yuan dynasty after Kublai Khan died?

Following the death of Kublai Khan, the Yuan dynasty faced a gradual decline characterized by political instability, economic disintegration, and social unrest.

Political and Administrative Weakness

The power of the imperial court diminished due to persistent family feuds and court intrigues. Later emperors often lacked the stature of their predecessors, and in several instances, young boys were enthroned as puppets controlled by ambitious ministers. Furthermore, the Mongol ruling class struggled to identify with Chinese civilian institutions, maintaining a military and colonialist character that fostered deep resentment among the Chinese population. Factionalism at court frequently escalated into the use of military power, which weakened central authority and allowed regional leaders to establish independent power bases.12

Economic and Social Challenges

• Economic Disintegration: While the Yuan initially utilized paper money effectively, the economy eventually collapsed under the last rulers, rendering the currency valueless and triggering severe inflation.34
• Natural Disasters: In the 1330s, widespread crop failures, floods, and famine devastated the population, fueling the growth of peasant rebel movements like the Red Turbans.5
• Disease: The interconnected trade routes of the Pax Mongolica facilitated the spread of the Black Death across Eurasia, which decimated populations and further eroded Mongol political authority.6